KC area bishop apologizes to parishioners

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bishop Robert Finn of the Kansas City-St, Joseph Diocese said in a letter to parishioners that he accepts responsibility for not responding to warnings about a priest accused of possessing child pornography.

Finn’s letter was read during Sunday services. He also apologized and said the diocese has to do more.

Finn also said last week that he regretted failing to listen to warnings about the Rev. Shawn F. Ratigan, who has pleaded not guilty to possessing child pornography. Finn also recently removed another area priest from his duties because of “credible reports” of sexual misconduct with minors.

The Kansas City Star reported that in addition, a federal lawsuit, filed by the parents of a girl, also alleges that Ratigan took photographs underneath her clothing and while the child was nude.